Columbia Heights, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,155
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,691/yr
-1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,321
0.4% year-over-year change

Columbia Heights population

How many people live in Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights is home to 22,155 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Columbia Heights locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
22,155
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
11,120
Female
49.8%
11,035
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,120 50.2% 0.2%
Female 11,035 49.8% 1.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Columbia Heights is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.3% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
30.3%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,944 17.8% -2.0%
15 to 24 2,593 11.7% 8.0%
25 to 44 6,721 30.3% 0.1%
45 to 64 5,696 25.7% 0.6%
Over 65 3,201 14.4% -0.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Columbia Heights, 76.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.6% of locals are Caucasian, 26.8% are African American and 4.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17.3%
Non-citizens
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,004 76.8% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,837 17.3% 7.4%
Non-citizens 1,314 5.9% 6.0%
Racial breakdown
White
49.6%
Black or African American
26.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
4.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
12.2%
Value Percent
White 10,980 49.6%
Black or African American 5,948 26.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 84 0.4%
Asian 952 4.3%
Two or more races 1,483 6.7%
Other 2,708 12.2%

Households in Columbia Heights

A peek inside Columbia Heights households

Columbia Heights has 8,877 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.1% are families, while the remaining 45.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,877
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,075
Family households
4,802
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,075 45.9% 3.3%
Family households 4,802 54.1% -1.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Columbia Heights

The housing landscape of Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights's housing consists of 9,321 units, with 59.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,321
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,579 59.8%
1 unit, attached 907 9.7%
2 units 418 4.5%
3 or 4 units 147 1.6%
5 to 9 units 224 2.4%
10 to 19 units 561 6%
20 to 49 units 248 2.7%
50 or more units 1,220 13.1%
Mobile home 17 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
45
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia Heights

In Columbia Heights, the median construction year is 1963. About 10.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,018 10.9% -4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 669 7.2% 9.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,473 26.5% -7.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,818 19.5% 5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 755 8.1% 5.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 676 7.2% -16.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 336 3.6% -10.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 503 5.4% -5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,028 11% 29.6%
Built in 2020 or later 45 0.5% N/A
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Columbia Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 8,877 occupied housing units in Columbia Heights, 66% are owner-occupied, while 34% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,877
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,023
Owner occupied
5,854
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,023 34% -1.0%
Owner occupied 5,854 66% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
4.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Columbia Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Columbia Heights come to a median of $1,444 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,295.

Median housing costs per month
$1,444/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Columbia Heights
$1,295/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights education at a glance

About 35.3% of the population in Columbia Heights went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 714 4.1% 32.2%
High school diploma 6,185 35.3% -2.2%
College diploma 3,715 21.2% 7.8%
Associate degree 1,401 8% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,084 23.3% -5.3%
Graduate degree 1,416 8.1% 15.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Columbia Heights

How much people earn in Columbia Heights

The average annual household income in Columbia Heights was $92,368 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,691, reflecting a -1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia Heights
$92,368/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia Heights
$73,691/year
-1.3% year-over-year change

Columbia Heights income by age

In Columbia Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,867. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,972 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,071 in earnings. Overall, 83.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,250 2.7%
25 - 44 $93,867 -0.5%
45 - 64 $84,972 5.3%
Over 65 $44,071 8.1%
Above poverty level
18,262
Below poverty level
3,530
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,262 83.8% -1.6%
Below poverty level 3,530 16.2% 12.1%

Average renter income in Columbia Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbia Heights, their median household income was $37,003 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,003
Rent-to-income ratio
42%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Columbia Heights

Workforce and job types in Columbia Heights

The job market in Columbia Heights is powered by 12,056 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 66.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,056
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
9,147
Blue collar
2,909
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,147 75.9% 3.8%
Blue collar 2,909 24.1% -5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
66.8%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,032 8.6% 14.4%
Private companies 8,053 66.8% -3.8%
Governmental workers 1,435 11.9% 14.2%
Not for profit companies 1,536 12.7% 12.2%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
15.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia Heights stands at 5.5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Columbia Heights

How people get around in Columbia Heights

In Columbia Heights, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,677 74.5% 2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 392 3.4% -12.1%
Bicycle 54 0.5% 42.1%
Walk 105 0.9% -11.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Columbia Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55421 30,843 12,726 $70,772 $90,251

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FAQs about Columbia Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia Heights?

Columbia Heights has a total population of 22,155 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia Heights?

The gender ratio in Columbia Heights is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (11,120 residents)
  • 49.8% females (11,035 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia Heights?

The median age in Columbia Heights is 36.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia Heights?

The age distribution in Columbia Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (3,944 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (2,593 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.3% (6,721 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (5,696 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (3,201 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia Heights is as follows:
  • White: 49.6% (10,980 residents)
  • Black or African American: 26.8% (5,948 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (84 residents)
  • Asian: 4.3% (952 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (1,483 residents)
  • Other: 12.2% (2,708 residents)

What percentage of the population in Columbia Heights are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.8% of the population in Columbia Heights.

How many housing units are there in Columbia Heights?

There are 9,321 housing units in Columbia Heights, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Columbia Heights and what is the average household size?

Columbia Heights has a total of 8,877 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia Heights?

Columbia Heights has a median household income of $73,691, representing a -1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Columbia Heights?

The employment rate is 94.5% in Columbia Heights, with a workforce of 12,056 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.9% (9,147 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.1% (2,909 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (1,032 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.8% (8,053 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (1,435 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (1,536 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025